Return of Hill and Lewsey lifts England

ENGLAND’S faltering World Cup campaign has been given a lift after flanker Richard Hill and fullback Josh Lewsey were declared fit for Sunday’s World Cup semi-final against France.

A further boost came with news that utility back Iain Balshaw had also passed a fitness test, meaning England could well be at full-strength for Sunday’s collision at the Olympic Stadium.

Of the three players, it is Hill’s recovery that will be most warmly welcomed by England coach Clive Woodward.